What a La Niña summer could mean for the PNW
We're just coming out of the throws of an El Niño winter, and now climatologists are forecasting that La Niña could arrive this summer. So what is La Niña? La Niña is a climate pattern characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, leading to changes in global weather systems including its effects on Pacific Northwest states such as Washington, Oregon and Idaho.
During a La Niña summer in the Pacific Northwest, typical weather patterns include:
Cooler temperatures: La Niña typically brings cooler than average summer temperatures to its region, though this doesn't always translate to cold temperatures; rather it means it may not be as scorchingly hot compared to an El Niño or neutral year.
Increased precipitation: In La Niña years, the Pacific Northwest may experience higher rainfall than usual due to an extended jet stream, leading to wetter conditions and possibly producing increased rainfall.
Effects on agriculture: Cooler temperatures and increased precipitation can have both positive and negative consequences for agricultural activities. While cooler weather and increased rain may help certain plants reduce heat stress by providing ample moisture, it could delay ripening or increase disease risks in others.
Impact on wildfires: Drier conditions could help lower the risk and severity of wildfires in the region during warmer and drier summer months, which can become increasingly problematic.
Increased marine influence: With its cooler temperatures, La Niña can intensify marine layer presence along coastlines, leading to more cloud cover, fog cover, and cooler days nearer the ocean.
Be mindful that while La Niña can affect climate patterns overall, it doesn't determine every weather event. Other factors play a part in shaping summer weather conditions. Additionally, its effects may differ depending on where it appears and intensity could change with additional climate variability.
